Manila: Indigenous peoples (IPs) in Ilocos Norte have expressed their support for the government's efforts to revitalize the coconut industry. As one of the beneficiaries under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) in Ilocos Norte, Emilio Rabago, president of the Saguigui Tribal Council Inc. in Pagudpud, is encouraging farmers to plant more high-yielding varieties of coconut.

According to Philippines News Agency, Rabago shared his positive experiences during the awarding of certificates for CFIDP interventions in Batac City. "I am glad that I have planted coconut years ago and now standing here before you to share the benefits I got," he stated. Rabago also urged coconut farmers to register in the government's registry system to avail themselves of various government support services.

Under the revised CFIDP 2024-2028, a five-year roadmap approved by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on May 21, 2025, registered coconut farmers can expect a renewed push to boost their productivity, income, and social welfare. The plan includes rehabilitating and expanding coconut plantations to transform the country's coconut industry.

In Ilocos Norte, more than 3,600 coconut farmers have started improving their lots planted with coconut, according to the provincial government. With assistance from the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and other partner agencies, farmers are being organized into cooperatives. Various capacity-building trainings are also being conducted to integrate them into the value chain.

The benefits for coconut farmers and their families include health and medical benefits, crop insurance, scholarship grants, trainings, and the provision of coconut hybrid seed nuts.